ColorTone Aerosol Guitar Lacquer Classic Clear Gloss 13oz

In this review the ColorTone Aerosol Guitar Lacquer stands out as an accessible way for hobbyists and small-shop builders to get a traditional nitrocellulose finish without costly spray booths or compressors. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a true nitrocellulose formula in a convenient 13oz can that is both fast-drying and resistant to alcohol and water, so it produces a durable, attractive surface for instruments with minimal setup.

Key Features

• Professional nitrocellulose: Produces the classic glossy nitro finish that enhances wood figure and tones similar to shop-sprayed lacquer.
• Fast-drying formula: Dries quickly so layering and light sanding between coats is straightforward, saving time on a project.
• Alcohol and water resistance: Creates a hard, durable outer coat that stands up to common household spills and playing wear.
• User-friendly aerosol: The 13oz can and rotating-tip nozzle make it possible to apply an even coat without expensive spray equipment.
• Adjustable spray pattern: Rotating-tip nozzle allows horizontal or vertical patterns for better control across bodies, necks, and tight contours.
• Instrument-ready use: Formulated for guitars, mandolins, banjos and ukuleles and suitable for touch-ups or full finishing jobs.

Who It's For

This lacquer is best for DIY builders, small repair shops, and musicians who want a traditional nitrocellulose gloss without investing in a spray rig. It suits people finishing bare wood, over sanding sealer, or topping ColorTone stains and is handy for touch-up work on existing instruments.

Those who should look elsewhere include users needing a mirror-smooth, wet-spray automotive-level surface without additional leveling and buffing, or professionals who require large-volume, compressor-based application for production runs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Delivers an authentic nitrocellulose look that customers call high quality and effective for refinishing.
• Easy to use aerosol format with a rotating-tip nozzle improves control and reduces overspray waste.
• Fast drying and resistant to alcohol and water, which makes for a durable, long-lasting finish.
• Good value for small projects and touch-ups compared with shop equipment costs.

Cons

• Aerosol application can produce a slightly rougher surface than professional spray booths and may need more sanding and polishing for a perfectly smooth mirror finish.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ColorTone Aerosol Guitar Lacquer is a practical, cost-effective choice for hobbyists and small shops who want a true nitrocellulose finish without elaborate equipment. It is fast-drying, durable, and easy to apply with the rotating-tip aerosol, making it good value for finishing and touch-up work where a full spray setup is not available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this be used over stain?
Yes, it can be applied over ColorTone stains and sanded basecoats once properly dry and sealed.

Is the finish water resistant?
The lacquer is formulated to be water and alcohol resistant and produces a hard, durable surface.

Will this require special spray equipment?
No, the 13oz aerosol with rotating-tip is designed to eliminate the need for compressors or spray booths for most small projects.